White text on a light gray background reads “zaniac” with stylized letters, followed by “K-8 STEM After-School Programs & Camps.”.
1 Town Square Blvd., Suite 120, Asheville, NC 28803
(828) 575-0355
asheville@zaniaclearning.com
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About

About Zaniac

Where Curiosity Meets Innovation

Welcome to Zaniac, your premier destination for STEM education in Asheville. We are committed to igniting curiosity and enhancing the education of students in grades K-8 through our innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs.

We believe every child has the potential to become an innovator capable of discovering new solutions and ideas. Our mission is to nurture this potential through a hands-on learning environment that encourages problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.

Zaniac is more than just a learning facility—we are an integral part of the Asheville community. We collaborate with local schools and organizations to provide STEM education to underserved communities, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to learn and grow.

Our dedicated team of educators and staff are the heart of our center. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to every program we offer. Meet our team and see the faces behind our success.

Choosing Zaniac means partnering with a leader in STEM education dedicated to your child’s academic and personal growth. Our state-of-the-art facilities, customized learning programs, and commitment to excellence set us apart as the best choice for your child’s educational journey.

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Our Programs

We offer a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of every student:

After-School Programs

Extend learning beyond the classroom with fun, educational activities that reinforce STEM concepts.
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Camps

From summer adventures to school break workshops, our camps keep children engaged and learning all year round.
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Special Events

Our themed events and birthday parties provide fun and educational experiences.
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Meet the Team

A smiling woman with long blonde hair stands outdoors by water, wearing a colorful, striped sleeveless dress. Green foliage is visible in the background.

Lynne Porter

Campus Director & Co-Owner

A middle-aged man with gray hair and a beard smiles warmly at the camera. He is wearing a light-colored button-up shirt, and the background is softly blurred with natural, outdoor lighting.

Reed Bilbray

CEO & Co-Owner

A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, glasses, and a white turtleneck under a brown vest smiles in front of a solid blue background. She is wearing a name tag that reads "zaniac Denise Waycaster.

Denise Waycaster

Campus Manager

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Nik Holton

Manager STEM Learning & Development

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Christi Whitworth

Senior Instructor & Library Programs Manager

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Sandra Bilbray

Marketing & Co-Owner

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Dana Harris

Co-Owner

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Dr. Stephen L. Page

Educational Advisor & Co-Owner

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Laney White

Instructor

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Jack Henley

Instructor

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Zachary Price

Instructor

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Henry Shaw

Instructor

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Jeremy Bush

Instructor

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Rayhan Brown

Instructor

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Rich Miller

Instructor

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Caitlyn Jacobsen

Instructor

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Oliver Porter

Instructor

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Lillian Bodenheimer

Instructor

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Roman White

Instructor

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Edie Kuhn

Instructor

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Lynne Porter

Campus Director & Co-Owner

Lynne leverages her extensive background in education, banking, and finance to empower children through discovery and science. Her international experience and fluency in multiple languages enrich her educational approach, helping to dismantle the stereotypes that often confine young learners.

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Reed Bilbray

Chief Executive Officer, Co-Owner

“I recently read, ‘when kids look up to great scientists the way they do to great musicians and actors, civilization will jump to the next level.’ I am passionate about connecting parents with Zaniac so they can enrich and influence their children’s lives by awakening their spark for science-based learning.”

A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, glasses, and a white turtleneck under a brown vest smiles in front of a solid blue background. She is wearing a name tag that reads "zaniac Denise Waycaster.

Denise Waycaster

Campus Manager

I’m a native to Asheville, and I come to Zaniac after many years of experience in the retail management space. I believe children should always feel supported through positive reinforcement and feedback. Zaniac provides a challenging, safe environment for children to explore and spark a passion in STEAM that opens doors for their future. I am excited to be part of the Zaniac team and help lead a positive environment where children can learn, grow and experiment. Through STEAM skill development, Zaniac gives children a foundation to becoming confident, young adults. My hope is, that in turn, children at Zaniac will develop a passion for paying forward their experiences to help others. IA little bit about me: My grown daughter Kaylan lives in Pittsburgh, and I recently adopted a new pet, a dachshund named, Brulee. My favorite things include spending time with my family, reading, enjoying the beautiful WNC scenery, watching movies and listening to music. Random fact about me: My favorite food is watermelon.

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Noemi Causseaux

Manager of STEM Learning & Development

Noemi brings over twenty years of educational experience and a passion for science to develop engaging learning environments that captivate and educate, making STEM fun and accessible.

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Dana Harris

Marketing Director & Co-Owner

Combining her expertise in accounting, real estate, and event planning, Dana connects children and parents with transformative educational opportunities, emphasizing community outreach and the importance of STEM education.

A smiling older man with a bald head and white beard, wearing a black turtleneck sweater, standing against a plain light gray wall.

Dr. Stephen L. Page

Educational Advisor & Co-Owner

Dr. Page brings over 35 years of educational experience as a former superintendent and principal. His guidance is instrumental in ensuring that our programs not only meet but exceed educational standards.

Dr. Stephen L. Page

Educational Advisor & Co-Owner

Dr. Page brings over 35 years of educational experience as a former superintendent and principal. His guidance is instrumental in ensuring that our programs not only meet but exceed educational standards.